The LA Opera stage is set to welcome Candide, a masterpiece by legendary conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein.
Inspired by French philosopher Voltaire’s famous satirical novel, the production is an operetta blending the appeal of both opera and musical theater. It features 18th-century roco-style extravagant costumes, constantly shifting spectacular stage directions, and Tony and Olivier Award-winning hit songs.
Based on the 2018 production that received global acclaim through collaborations with the Glimmerglass Festival and the national operas of Bordeaux and Toulouse in France, the 2026 revival returns with fully reinforced casting and conducting teams for a fresh staging.
The story follows the optimistic young hero Candide, who embarks on a turbulent adventure wandering the globe after being banished, facing wars, earthquakes, the Inquisition, and explorations of the New World.
What makes this production particularly noteworthy is the casting of rising Korean tenor Duke Kim in the title role. Originally from Seoul, Kim is a rising star in the global opera scene, having won the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and received the 2026 Stern Artist Award. Having previously earned praise in LA Opera’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘West Side Story,’ he takes on the innocent protagonist ‘Candide’ to showcase delicate acting and explosive vocal prowess.
The supporting lineup has also been upgraded significantly. Broadway star Scott Bakula makes his LA Opera debut in a dual role as Voltaire and Dr. Pangloss, while Broadway legend Patti LuPone joins as the Old Lady and soprano Megan Marino takes on the role of Cunegonde.
Additionally, LA Opera Resident Conductor Lina González-Granados leads the orchestra, completing a younger and more energetic sound.
‘Candide’ opens on the 21st and runs for six performances through December 13 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Tickets can be purchased on the LA Opera website (laopera.org).
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